Trade Details

Magic receive: Deandre Ayton

Hornets receive: Chris Paul

Suns receive: Terry Rozier, Wendell Carter Jr, Jonathan Isaac

Free Agent Signings

Jock Londale 3 year 12 million

Torrey Craig 2 year 8 million

TJ Warren 1 year minimum

Magic explanation: Ayton had a horrible playoff run this year and his value has gone down considerably. However, he still should have good value as he’s the same age as Carter Jr and still averaged 18 and 10. He could be a great fit next to Paolo in the frontcourt if Orlando adds some shooting in the draft. Losing Isaac doesn’t hurt as he is always injured and won’t get minutes if he’s healthy.

Hornets explanation: A simple swap that makes sense for both teams. Getting Paul to mentor Lamelo and Scoot would be a dream for Charlotte. Much like how he turned SGA into a superstar, I could see him having similar affects on these guys. Rozier is expendable with the Hornets picking Scoot at 2 so that’s another reason for this deal.

Suns explanation: 2 things Phoenix needs to figure out this offseason is Chris Paul’s future and the Deandre Ayton situation. Paul is getting really old and his play is starting to show it. He’s still a great playmaker but can’t do the things he used to do. Plus he’s always hurt in the playoffs. Flipping him for a younger player in Rozier makes sense so they can extend their title window. For Ayton, I’d trade him because of his effort and relationship with the franchise. Carter is a downgrade but at least he tries. Plus, if Isaac can get healthy he’s a good starter. This helps Phoenix be competitive for as long as possible.

Projected lineup

Starters

PG: Terry Rozier

SG: Devin Booker

SF: Kevin Durant

PF: Jonathan Isaac

C: Wendell Carter Jr

-

Bench

PG: Cameron Payne

SG: Landry Shamet

SF: Torrey Craig

PF: TJ Warren

C: Jock Londale